Life as an Expatriate in Panama

Rosalind (Roz) Baitel, who is originally from the United States, has been an expatriate in Panama for more than 30 years. In 1985, Roz came to Panama to teach science at a U.S. Department of Defense Dependents School. Roz, who is married to a Panamanian, is one of 20,000-30,000 expatriates living in Panama.

Panama has become an attractive place for Americans to live in. Roz describes Panama as being a livable city that is affordable and family friendly.

In 2007, Rosalind opened “Promises Panama,” a consignment store that was established to raise funds for Panamanian charities.

The story behind the store’s name comes from Roz’s time as a teacher at Cristobal High School when one of her best friends passed away from Parkinson’s disease. Promises’ logo consists of the colors of Cristobal High School in Panama and the symbol of the “P” in the name represents Parkinson’s disease. Promises works with over 40 charitable groups in Panama.

Rosalind Baitel (Roz) talks to her store’s cashier and salesperson, Berta Ruiz, left, inside of her store, Promises Panama. Promises Consignment Boutique is the only consignment boutique in Panama dedicated to charity fundraising. Promises’ mission is to raise money for local charities through the sale of high end gently used donated articles of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. Promises raises money for over 40 charities and consults with groups on fund raising. / Photo by Jackie Friedman

Roz Baitel points to a park that is located near her house. Roz explains that when her children were younger she or her housekeeper Betty Cediel would take the children to the park. Roz also explains how her neighborhood in Panama City is one of the best areas to raise children. / Photo by Jackie Friedman

Roz) Baitel and Llsa de Richa, president of the ladies group that helps the Malambo orphanage, tries to pick a photograph that was taken of them to put on the Promises Instagram page. / Photo by Jackie Friedman

Roz Baitel and her housekeeper Betty Cediel discuss the chores that need to be done around the house while Roz goes to work. Betty has been working for Baitel’s family for over 25 years. / Photo by Jackie Friedman

Roz Baitel, talks to her friends at the Expat Meet and Mix hosted by the American Society of Panama. The American Society of Panama holds their Expat Meet and Mixes on the first Monday of the month at different restaurants or hotels. / Photo by Jackie Friedman

Roz Baitel checks her email inside of her living room. / Photo by Jackie Friedman